When Your Skills Aren't a Perfect Match

By Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com

In the course of a job search, it's very common for job seekers
to locate openings that closely match their skills and
experience but are not a perfect fit. So what do you do when
the description fits you to a tee but your skills fall just a
little short?

In the course of a job search, it's very
common for job seekers to locate openings that closely match
their skills and experience but are not a perfect fit. So what
do you do when the description fits you to a tee but your
skills fall just a little short? Overwhelmingly, experts say
that you should not be discouraged and should apply for the
job. Consider these dos and don'ts for getting noticed for the
skills you do have instead of those you lack.

DO use a functional resume. A functional resume
emphasizes experience. It can be tailored around the specific
job you are trying to land by highlighting the credentials that
most qualify you for the position. Experts suggest that you
strategically order your qualifications based on the order they
appear in the job description. Typically, the most important
job duties are listed at the beginning of the job ad and the
less important ones at the end.

DO insert job skill categories into your resume to
highlight the specific experience and unique qualities you
possess and how they relate to the job requirements. This is a
highly-effective way to grab the hiring manager's attention.
Depending on the type of job you are applying for, categories
might include "sales management," "customer service," "account
management," or "copywriting."

DON'T over-inflate your qualifications to land an
interview. There's nothing worse than exaggerating your
experience and being called on it during the interview. It's
better to be truthful about the skills and experience you do
possess rather than face this embarrassing situation in the
interview.

DO write a compelling cover letter to accompany your
resume. Cover letters should be no more than one page in length
and should convince the reader that you have something valuable
to contribute to their company. It should address the job
requirements and how your experience applies. If you possess
four of the required five - six skills the company is seeking,
your letter should emphasize these four and ignore the skills
you lack. A good cover letter should show the reader that you
have researched their company and that it will be worth their
time to interview you.

DON'T be tempted to re-use a standard cover letter. A
cover letter is your first chance to make a positive
impression. Don't blow it by using an uninspired message.
Customize your letter for the specific job. Hiring managers can
see right through generic ones and may sort them right into the
circular file.

DO ask yourself the following question: "If I were the
hiring manager, why would I hire this person over the others
who applied?" Use the answer as your inspiration when writing
your cover letter.

DON'T neglect your interpersonal skills. The ability to
work well with others, maintain a positive attitude, and handle
confidential information are crucial qualities that all
employers seek in their candidates. You should emphasize these
attributes in your cover letter and resume.

DO show that you are willing and able to learn new
skills. If you lack a required skill, but are a good match
otherwise, consider signing up for a course on the topic and
mention this in your cover letter. If experience is the best
teacher for a required skill, show how you have learned other
desirable skills in your present job to demonstrate your
ability to learn while you work.

DON'T limit your experience to paid jobs. Many skills
are learned through volunteer work, hobbies, school, church and
community activities. Be sure to include these life-learned
skills in your communication to potential employers. For
instance, if the job posting requires budget management skills,
show how your role as treasurer for the PTA taught you how to
manage multiple projects and budgets and report spending.

Bottom line, no matter how you handle these near-perfect
matches, remember to always emphasize the positive.